The Kurma Avataar is the second of the ten primary avataars (Dashavataar) of the Hindu god Vishnu. This avataar takes the form of a giant tortoise and is central to the legend of the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), a significant event in Hindu mythology that explains the origin of Amrita, the nectar of immortality.

The story begins with a conflict between the Devas (Gods) and the Asuras (demons). Both groups desired immortality and eternal power, which could only be achieved by consuming Amrita, the nectar of immortality. To obtain this nectar, they needed to churn the cosmic ocean of milk (Kshira Sagara).

Mount Mandara was chosen as the churning rod, and the great serpent Vasuki was used as the churning rope. The Devas and Asuras agreed to work together, with the Devas taking the tail end of Vasuki and the Asuras taking the head. However, when they tried to churn the ocean, Mount Mandara began to sink due to its enormous weight.

To save the situation, Vishnu incarnated as Kurma, a giant tortoise. He dove into the ocean and supported Mount Mandara on his back, providing the stability needed for the churning process to continue.

With Kurma’s help, the Devas and Asuras resumed churning the ocean. As they did so, various treasures and beings emerged from the ocean, such as Kamadhenu, the wish-fulfilling cow. Airavata, the celestial elephant, Kalpavriksha, the wish-fulfilling tree, Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth, who became Vishnu’s consort and Halahala, the deadly poison, which Shiva consumed to protect the universe, turning his throat blue (earning him the name Neelakantha).

A fierce battle ensued between the Devas and Asuras for the possession of the nectar. Vishnu, taking the form of Mohini, a beautiful enchantress, intervened. She tricked the Asuras into handing over the nectar, which she then distributed among the Devas. Thus, the Devas gained immortality and power over the Asuras.